Nimesulide
ANALGESICUses of Nimesulide
- Nimesulide is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat fever, pain, and inflammation in conditions like dysmenorrhea, acute pain, and osteoarthritis.
- It is also effective for managing dental pain caused by nerve damage, infection, decay, extraction, or injury.
Side effects of Nimesulide
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Increased liver enzymes
How Nimesulide works
Nimesulide works by inhibiting the activity of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, specifically COX-2. Here's a more detailed look at how it functions:
- Nimesulide is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
- Nimesulide inhibits the COX-2 enzyme, which plays a crucial role in the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemicals in the body that promote inflammation, pain, and fever.
- Nimesulide may also have other anti-inflammatory properties, such as reducing free radicals (damaging molecules produced during inflammation) and inhibiting the production of certain inflammatory messengers like histamine.
Certified content
Written By
B. Pharm
Reviewed By
B. Pharm, MSc.
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
- Nimesulide can be taken orally (tablet, capsule and suspension), applied topically (gel) and used as a suppository.
Age And Dose Restrictions
- It is intended to be used by adults and children above 12 years of age.
Contraindications
- It is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Nimesulide. It is also contraindicated in patients with active or a history of recurrent peptic ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding or other bleeding disorders.
Other Medications To Avoid With This Medicine
- Avoid taking gastric acid reducers (cimetidine), antacids, antiarrhythmics (digoxin), diuretics (furosemide), anticoagulants (warfarin), immunosuppressive medications (methotrexate), antidiabetics (glibenclamide), and bronchodilator (theophylline). These medications may alter the safety and effectiveness of Nimesulide.
Overdose And Missed Dose
- Overdose can cause lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. These symptoms need to be managed as an emergency in a hospital setting. Therefore, strict adherence to the prescribed dose is essential.
- If you miss a dose of Nimesulide, take it as soon as you remember. But, if the next dose is near, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing regime.
Management Of Side Effects
- Take Nimesulide with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects and continue taking it as prescribed. If side effects worsen or persist, consult your doctor for a possible treatment plan adjustment.
Use In Driving And Operating Machinery
- You may experience dizziness after taking this medication as an uncommon side effect. It is not recommended to drive, operate machinery, or do other activities that require mental alertness or coordination till you know how the medicine affects you.
Use In Pregnancy And Lactation
- Nimesulide is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Caution In Other Conditions
- Caution is advised in older adults and patients with heart conditions, severe coagulation disorders and severe kidney and liver impairment.
Special Dietary And Lifestyle Recommendation
- Avoid alcohol consumption while on Nimesulide, as it may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers.
- Take Nimesulide only for the prescribed duration.
- Excess weight can put a strain on joints and exacerbate osteoarthritis pain. Aim to maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
- Choose comfortable, supportive shoes to minimise the impact on joints and reduce osteoarthritis pain.
Frequently asked questions
1. Is Nimesulide a painkiller?
Yes, this medication is a painkiller. It helps alleviate pain and inflammation associated with dysmenorrhoea, osteoarthritis and other acute pain conditions.
2. How much time does Nimesulide take to work?
This medication typically shows its effects within 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion. However, individual responses may vary.
3. Is Nimesulide a habit-forming medicine?
This medication is not habit-forming and is generally safe when used as directed.
4. How long does the effect of Nimesulide last?
This medication may relieve pain for up to a few hours. However, the duration of this medication's effect can vary with the individual and the severity of the condition being treated.
5. Does Nimesulide affect fertility?
This medication may impair female fertility and is not recommended in women attempting to conceive.
6. Is Nimesulide available over the counter, or do I need a prescription?
This medication usually requires a prescription and is not available over the counter.
7. Can Nimesulide be taken for stomach pain?
This medication can be effective in relieving painful menstruation. However, its use for stomach pain should only be done when a doctor advises.
8. Is Nimesulide an antibiotic?
No, Nimesulide is not an antibiotic. It belongs to the class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are used for pain relief and reducing inflammation
9. Can I take Nimesulide with paracetamol?
Yes, you can. Nimesulide + Paracetamol is a combination used for pain relief. It works by blocking chemical messengers that cause pain and inflammation.
10. Does Nimesulide contain aspirin?
No, Nimesulide does not contain aspirin. It is a separate medication with its own mechanism of action.
11. Can I take Nimesulide for headache?
Nimesulide is not recommended for headaches. Instead, consider taking paracetamol (Crocin) or aspirin as first-line therapy.
12. Can I take Nimesulide with ibuprofen?
While Nimesulide and ibuprofen both belong to the NSAID class, it’s generally advisable to avoid combining them due to potential interactions. Consider discussing alternatives with your doctor.
13. Is Nimesulide safe in asthma?
Nimesulide is not recommended for asthma. Consult your doctor for suitable pain relief options if you have asthma.
Nimesulide in other salts
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